Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has safely returned to Earth from the space station after an 18-day stay aboard the International Space Station. On Tuesday, around 3 PM IST, SpaceX's Dragon capsule made a splashdown near the California coast in the Pacific Ocean. ISRO invested approximately Rs. 550 crores in this space expedition. Shubhanshu's space experience will greatly benefit India's Gaganyaan Mission.
Shubhanshu Shukla expressed, “I aim to inspire the children of our country through this mission. If I can ignite even one child's ambition, I consider myself successful.”
The Mission's Triumph and Nationwide Excitement
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla not only returned safely to Earth but was also triumphant in his mission, sparking excitement across the nation. The mission generated significant curiosity among children. As the images of his return surfaced, the entire nation breathed a sigh of relief and felt a surge of pride.
Source: aajtak
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Joy Upon Shubhanshu's Earthbound Return...
Shubhanshu Shukla was beaming with pride and a smile as he left the capsule, waving cheerfully. The splashdown, or landing, occurred at 3 PM IST near California's coast after a journey of approximately 23 hours. With the aid of parachutes, the Dragon spacecraft touched down on the Californian shore, paving its way to be retrieved from the water post-landing.
Shubhanshu Shukla's Dragon spacecraft hurtled towards Earth at a staggering 28,000 km/h. As it neared the planet, the speed was significantly reduced. The heat shield endured temperatures up to 2000°C on the capsule's exterior. Covering over 13.9 million kilometers, Shubhanshu's journey is historic.
Source: aajtak
Details of the Return from the Space Station...
Shubhanshu Shukla and three other astronauts departed the International Space Station a day prior at 4:45 PM, heading back to Earth. They reached the station on June 26 at 4:01 PM IST via the Dragon capsule attached to SpaceX's Falcon-9 rocket, launched from the Kennedy Space Center. ISRO's contribution was crucial, investing approximately Rs. 550 crores in this mission.
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Prime Minister's Congratulations
Extending warm congratulations upon Shubhanshu's return, the Prime Minister stated, “Along with the entire nation, I welcome Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla back to Earth after his historic space voyage. His determination and courage have inspired billions, marking a cornerstone in India’s manned spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan.”
Shubhanshu Shukla: India's Second Astronaut
Shubhanshu Shukla is only the second Indian to journey into space; preceded by Rakesh Sharma in 1984 who stayed there for 8 days. His return after conducting various experiments raises hopes among India's scientific community for shaping the nation’s futuristic ambitions.
Scientists' Perspectives and Anticipations...
Experts like William Selvamurthy (former DRDO DG) and astronomer Amitabh highlighted the lasting benefits of Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission. It might take some time for Shubhanshu's return to India, eagerly awaited by everyone.
Cheerful Celebrations at Lucknow's School
The City Montessori School in Lucknow, where Shubhanshu Shukla was educated, witnessed joyous celebrations. Students and his family celebrated the historic moment, shedding tears of joy when Shubhanshu completed a successful landing.
Crowds gathered at the CSIR-NPL auditorium in Delhi to watch live broadcasts of Shubhanshu’s return journey. For India, Shubhanshu Shukla's space mission represented more than a chance to set records. It was a preparation for the future, laying the groundwork for India’s autonomous manned space voyage aspirations. It’s a stepping stone for India's Gaganyaan mission.
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Two Historic Records...
Shubhanshu Shukla established two records with this mission: he became the first Indian citizen to travel to the International Space Station, and the second Indian citizen to walk in space since Rakesh Sharma’s mission 41 years ago in 1984.
During his time on the International Space Station, Shubhanshu Shukla conducted 7 significant tests to advance India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. These included experiments on decoding muscle loss, developing brain-computer interfaces, and germinating green gram and fenugreek seeds in space.
Insights from the Axiom-4 Mission
The Axiom-4 mission brought back invaluable data and insights on sustenance and support for prolonged human presence in space, alongside a better understanding of brain blood circulation in zero-gravity environments.
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Medical Checkups and Rehabilitation
Though Shubhanshu has returned to Earth, challenges remain. He will undergo rehabilitation for seven days to acclimatize his body to Earth's gravity with medical oversight ensuring his health.
Shubhanshu Shukla's mission extends beyond a space journey. It reflects India's aspirations, scientific achievements, and bolstered self-assurance that aids in establishing India as a global force.
